QAL Laws & Regulation Practice Exam

Which of the following is not considered an IPM method or control option?

1. Biological

2. Chemical

3. Cultural

4. Genetic modification

The correct answer is: Genetic modification

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) encompasses a variety of strategies that aim to manage pest populations effectively while minimizing risks to human health and the environment. The primary methods of IPM typically include biological, chemical, cultural, and physical controls. Biological control involves the use of natural enemies, such as predators, parasites, or pathogens, to reduce pest populations. Chemical control refers to the application of pesticides to manage pests, while cultural control involves practices that alter the environment to reduce pest establishment, reproduction, and survival, such as crop rotation or sanitation. Genetic modification, while potentially beneficial in pest management, falls outside the traditional IPM methods primarily because it's not a direct control method like the others. Instead, it represents a broader category of biotechnology that can lead to the development of pest-resistant crops, which is viewed as a separate approach. It can be seen as a tool used to enhance other methods rather than an IPM strategy on its own. Thus, regarding traditional IPM methods and control options, genetic modification is not categorized as one of them.